Program Manager/Long-Term Sub Teacher

Job Opening: Substitute Teacher – Program Manager (PEL)

Location: McHenry, IL
Type: Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Industry: Special Education
Reports To: Classroom Teacher

About Alexander Leigh Center for Autism (ALCA)

Alexander Leigh Center for Autism (ALCA) is a therapeutic day school in McHenry, Illinois. We are creative, collaborative, and outside-the-box thinkers dedicated to helping children with autism—and those who love them—thrive.

Our work environment includes:

• Teaching and training opportunities

• Growth and professional development

• A team of like-minded, mission-driven professionals

Position Summary

Are you pursuing a career in special education, ABA, or special needs support services?
ALCA is hiring Substitute Teacher – Program Managers (PMs) to support our classrooms, working directly with students with autism and other developmental support needs.

This is a perfect opportunity for:

• Recent graduates or student teachers

• Aspiring special education teachers or behavior analysts

• Passionate individuals who want to make a meaningful impact

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking compassionate, energetic, and adaptable professionals who are eager to grow in the field of special education. The ideal candidate will:

• Be passionate about supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.

• Approach challenges with patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.

• Thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

• Be open to learning new strategies in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and classroom management.

• Stay calm and solution-focused in high-stress or crisis situations.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with students, families, and colleagues.

• Take initiative, maintain strong organizational skills, and manage multiple priorities.

• Value professionalism, confidentiality, and continuous improvement.

If you are driven to make a difference and want to grow within a supportive, innovative school setting, ALCA is the place for you!

Key Responsibilities

• Assist Classroom Teachers in daily instruction and behavior programs

• Help write IEP goals and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)

• Train and support instructional assistant staff

• Analyze behavior and academic data; participate in parent meetings

• Support classroom staffing as needed

• Maintain accurate student records and materials

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members (BCBAs, therapists, program leads, etc.)

• Co-supervise and coach classroom staff

• Assist in developing lesson plans and organizing daily activities

• Participate in staff training, professional development, and school meetings

• Follow safety protocols and wear required protective equipment

• Complete all documentation accurately and in a timely manner

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift or move students/materials up to 100 lbs

• Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl for extended periods (20+ minutes)

• Regularly walk, run, and perform physical intervention techniques (PCM)

• Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions

• Engage in strenuous physical activity for at least 20 continuous minutes

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required (Education, Psychology, Speech, or related field preferred)

• ISBE Substitute Teaching License (Type 39) required

• Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills

• Physically able to support students up to 100 lbs and respond in crisis situations

• PCM, CPR, and First Aid certifications (or willingness to obtain)

• Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations

• Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a dynamic environment